Simeon’s remarks are set within a hymn known as the Nunc Dimittis, from the Latin of the hymn’s opening phrase. The prophecy itself is a statement of mature faith. Simeon can die in peace as you have promised and be taken by God, his Sovereign Lord (despota or Master), because my eyes have seen your salvation. There is a significant equation in this remark. To see Jesus is to see God’s salvation. They are inseparable. There is joy, even in the face of death, when one has seen the source of life. Simeon’s job as a sentinel for Messiah is done. The Lord can take him home. Simeon pictures a faithful servant who is at home in God’s purpose and plan, even when his time is up.
–Darrell L. Bock, Luke (The IVP New Testament Commentary Series) [Downer’s Grove, Illinois: IVP, 1994], quoted in part in the morning sermon
The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple
by James Tissot, 1894Anna The Prophetess, Preaching at the Temple pic.twitter.com/LTdt8wfG3p
— Kalina Boulter (@KalinaBoulter) December 30, 2017